Daher Tbm 960 vs Enstrom 480b vs Md Helicopters (mcdonnell Douglas) 902 Explorer

The Daher TBM 960 is a single‑engine turboprop airplane, while the Enstrom 480B and MD Helicopters 902 Explorer are single‑engine turbine helicopters. In category terms, the TBM 960 is optimized for fast, efficient point‑to‑point travel using runways, whereas the 480B and 902 prioritize vertical access, hover capability, and operations into confined areas. For range, the TBM 960 generally offers the longest legs, typically around 1,000+ nautical miles depending on configuration and reserves, making it better suited to longer cross‑country trips. The Enstrom 480B has a much shorter typical range, commonly in the few‑hundred‑nautical‑mile class, aligning with regional hops, training, or utility missions. The MD 902 Explorer usually sits between them, with a longer helicopter range than the 480B but still well below the TBM’s airplane-class reach. Passenger capacity also differs: the TBM 960 typically seats up to about six occupants total, the Enstrom 480B is commonly configured for up to five, and the MD 902 Explorer is often configured for more, typically six to seven occupants, depending on interior and mission setup.